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Name meaning & originOwen

/OH-wen/

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Owen is a Welsh boy's name pronounced /OH-wen/. This name is generally understood to mean 'young warrior' or 'well-born'.

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Meaning of Owen

This name is generally understood to mean 'young warrior' or 'well-born'.

The name is primarily derived from the Welsh name Owain, which may stem from the Latin 'Eugenius' meaning well-born. Another theory suggests it comes from the Celtic 'ebun', meaning 'yew tree', which was sacred to ancient warriors. In Welsh mythology, Owain mab Urien was a hero of the Arthurian legends.

Origin
Welsh
Pronunciation
/OH-wen/

Cultural background

While deeply rooted in Welsh and Irish history, the name has gained widespread popularity throughout the English-speaking world, particularly in the United States, Canada, and England.

Variations & nicknames

  • Owain
  • Ouen
  • Ewan
  • Eoghan
  • Owennie

Famous people named Owen

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Owen Wilson

    Academy Award-nominated American actor and screenwriter

    Film · Modern

  • Owen Glendower

    The last native Welshman to hold the title Prince of Wales

    Politics · 14th-15th Century

  • Wilfred Owen

    English poet known for his work about the horrors of trench warfare

    Literature · Early 20th Century

  • Owen Hargreaves

    Professional footballer who played for Bayern Munich and Manchester United

    Sport · Modern

  • Owen Grady

    Lead character and dinosaur researcher in the Jurassic World franchise

    Film · Modern

Frequently asked about Owen

Is Owen an Irish or Welsh name?
It has roots in both; it is the Welsh form of Eugene and is also frequently used as an anglicized version of the Irish name Eoghan.
What is the female version of Owen?
While Owen is traditionally a male name, 'Rowan' or 'Olwen' are often used as feminine or unisex alternatives with a similar sound.
Does the name Owen appear in the Bible?
No, Owen is of Celtic and Latin origin and does not appear in the biblical text.

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